Taylor runs 46 yards in Colts loss

Jonathan Taylor rushed for 46 yards on 13 carries during the Indianapolis Colts' 27-23 loss to the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday. The performance marked what may be the former rushing champion's final home appearance at Lucas Oil Stadium before the NFL trade deadline expires on Tuesday.

Taylor, who has played only for the Colts in his six and a half seasons in the league, acknowledged that his time in Indianapolis could be ending. He noted that the city helped shape him personally and professionally since he arrived out of college to start a family. "This place helped shape me into the man I am today," Taylor said. "I'm very grateful for the city of Indianapolis."

The Colts fell to a 2-7 record after trailing in the second half of the matchup. Indianapolis overcame a 10-point deficit to take a 23-20 lead with 1:37 remaining. Dallas answered with a 1-yard touchdown run by Javonte Williams, and a late interception sealed the victory for the Cowboys. It marked the fifth consecutive loss for the Colts.

Taylor's individual production was limited in the defeat. He caught five passes for 18 yards but did not score a touchdown. The franchise career leader in rushing touchdowns, with 77 on the season, also lost a fourth-quarter fumble that cost Indianapolis a scoring opportunity. Head coach Shane Steichen said he was not ready to discuss trade speculation, stating, "He's on our football team."

Quarterback Daniel Jones may also be moving before the deadline. Jones has struggled with turnovers this season after a strong start in 2025. He was benched during last week's 42-7 loss to Jacksonville, a move that fueled trade rumors. On Sunday, Jones completed 20 of 34 passes for 180 yards with two touchdowns and one interception. The pick, thrown with 35 seconds left, was caught by Dallas safety Caleb Downs to end the game.

Jones said he focused on preparing for the game rather than the surrounding media noise. "There have been plenty of distractions the last couple weeks," Jones said. "But I think as players, your job is to focus as much on what's in front of you." Receiver Josh Downs, who played against his younger brother Caleb in the loss, has already requested a trade. Downs caught three passes for 24 yards and told reporters, "I'm open to whatever."

The Colts have already traded several players to collect draft picks and clear salary cap space for the 2027 season. Taylor expressed a desire to keep producing highlights for the only team he has played for, though he recognized the situation was beyond his control. "The hay is in the barn," Taylor said. "We just play the waiting game now." The Colts will host the rebuilding Miami Dolphins next week.